Established in 2008, Vitae Selection specializes in consumer, packaging, ingredients and energy sector appointments across the U.K. and international markets. Over the past four years, Hudson James Human Capital Group has established itself in executive search, focusing on consumer, accountancy and finance and energy sectors, representing many leading global brands. The acquisition will see Hudson James Human Capital Group double in both turnover and headcount, growing to a team of 22. Andrew Osbaldeston, managing director of Vitae Selection, joins Hudson James Human Capital as co-owner alongside Dan Spurr and becomes a member of the board with Kenton Robbins and Sonya Sharples.

“With a strong track record of performance over the past four years, the completion of this acquisition represents the first of Hudson James’ planned transactions on our path to becoming one of the leading search firms within our core markets,” said Dan Spurr, founder of Hudson James Human Capital Group. “This was a key strategic move for us, providing both the size and scale to be a major partner across executive consumer recruitment both nationally and internationally. This is an exciting time for the joint business, developing our capability, building upon our core business values and growing a business in partnership with our customers.”

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the Hudson James Human Capital team for all of their support and hard work over the past four years as we move on to our next chapter as a collaborative business. I look forward to working with Andrew and the rest of the Vitae team and to collectively aiming towards our joint growth strategy.”

Mr. Osbaldeston, for his part, sees the acquisition as a great fit. “With our combined capability, range and expertise we have an exciting platform from which to expand while maintaining our customer and candidate approach to quality and partnership,” he said. “The next phase of growth is going to be very exciting and testament to the hard work and focus of both our teams.”

Acquisitions Across Europe

What started as a wave in M&A activity among executive search firms throughout Europe before Brexit has turned into more of a tsunami lately. Here’s a look at some recent acquisitions among search firms across Europe from the Hunt Scanlon Media archives:

Hydrogen Group recently acquired Argyll Scott for £3.3 million. Together, the combined firms will deliver recruitment services across multiple functions, industries and countries. The acquisition allows Hydrogen to accelerate international growth plans and benefit from greater strength and depth in the London market.

Walter James acquired Euromedica Executive Search Limited. The acquisition positions the firm offer an end-to-end specialist service across the entire life sciences value chain. Euromedica has always focused exclusively on the life sciences sector, with more than 3,500 senior placements across the globe.

Hanover Search Group acquired Opus Executive Search of Los Angeles, which now operates under Antony Pitt as U.S. managing director. Opus has experience in the U.S. wealth management sector and will operate from both the East and West coasts. The newly merged operation will benefit from Mr. Pitt’s knowledge within the wealth management market.